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Since today is September 11, I thought I would tell you about some of our Children’s books about the terrorist attacks of 2001. These books can help children too young to remember the attacks understand what happened on that day. The first two books are fiction, while the last three are non-fiction.

I Survived the Attacks of September 11, 2001 by Lauren Tarshis: The only thing Lucas loves more than football is his Uncle Benny, his dad’s best friend at the fire department where they both work. Benny taught Lucas everything about football.

So when Lucas’s parents decide the sport is too dangerous and he needs to quit, Lucas has to talk to his biggest fan. So the next morning, Lucas takes the train to the city instead of the bus to school. It’s a bright, beautiful day in New York. But just as Lucas arrives at his uncle’s firehouse, everything changes — and nothing will ever be the same again.

Towers Falling by Jewell Parker Rhodes: When her fifth-grade teacher hints that a series of lessons about home and community will culminate with one big answer about two tall towers once visible outside their classroom window, Deja can’t help but feel confused. She sets off on a journey of discovery, with new friends Ben and Sabeen by her side.

But just as she gets closer to answering big questions about who she is, what America means, and how communities can grow (and heal), she uncovers new questions, too. Like, why does Pop get so angry when she brings up anything about the towers?

Surviving 9/11 by Paul C. Challen: An event still fresh in our collective memory, the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, are an integral part of the United States’ identity and politics today. This title explains what happened in the lead-up to the attacks, on the fateful day itself, and in the aftermath, guiding readers through the emergency response to an unprecedented disaster. The first-hand stories of survivors and first responders bring this historic tragedy to a personal level as readers learn about how America responded to and grew stronger from 9/11.

America is Under Attack: September 11, 2001: The Day the Towers Fell by Don Brown: The events of September 11, 2001 changed the world forever. In the fourth installment of the Actual Times series, Don Brown narrates the events of the day in a way that is both accessible and understandable for young readers.

Straightforward and honest, this account moves chronologically through the morning, from the terrorist plane hijackings to the crashes at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Pennsylvania; from the rescue operations at the WTC site in New York City to the collapse of the buildings. Vivid watercolor illustrations capture the emotion and pathos of the tragedy making this an important book about an unforgettable day in American history.

Hero Dogs: Courageous Canines in Action by Donna M. Jackson: Award-winning journalist and nonfiction author Donna M. Jackson takes an in-depth look at extraordinary canines and the role they play in the daily lives of humans. Featuring real stories from the September 11th attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, along with historical and scientific facts and dramatic photographs, this book explores some incredibly heroic and heartwarming moments. From bomb-sniffing dogs to guide dogs to avalanche rescue dogs to therapy dogs, these true stories of amazing canines will engage and fascinate readers of all ages.